Cool name, huh? Stephen Adly Gurguis’ critically acclaimed play, “The Motherfucker with the Hat,” will run from Nov. 17 through Dec. 6 at the Penn State Downtown Theatre Center.

The play follows the story of Jackie, a recovering addict fresh out of jail who is ready to get his life back together and settle down. Jackie has the help of his girlfriend, Veronica; his AA sponsor, Ralph D; and his cousin, Julio. However, all of Jackie’s plans change when he finds a stranger’s hat in his bedroom. He sets out on a quest to find the hat’s owner, otherwise known as the “motherfucker with the hat.” This journey threatens to diminish all of Jackie’s progress to a normal life.

The New York Times described the 2011 play as a “vibrant and surprisingly serious new comedy.” “The Motherfuckker with the Hat” was also nominated for six Tony Awards, including a nomination for best play.

This Penn State Centre Stage production stars Sebastian Arroyo as Jackie and is directed by Steve Broadnax. “For me, this is a passion project and I am honored to be working with a top rate cast. I believe in the functionality of theatre, and this play has a meaning that I hope audiences will sympathize with, understand, and embrace,” Broadnax said.

Previews of the production will be presented on Nov. 17 and Nov. 19 at 7:30 p.m. Performances begin Nov. 20, and continue Dec. 2 through Dec. 6 at 7:30 p.m. A matinee performance will be held at 2 p.m. on Dec. 6.

Tickets for the evening performances are $18, while seats for the preview or a matinee show can be purchased for $16. Penn State students with a valid PSU ID can buy tickets for $12. Tickets are available at Penn State Tickets Downtown, the Eisenhower Box Office, the Bryce Jordan Center, and by phone at (814) 863-0255.